Reinforced Adjustable Frame with Four-Way Junctions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Construction sites face challenges in ensuring worker safety due to fall accidents, inadequate access control, and air pollution, while existing safety equipment is often unsustainable and resource-intensive, leading to the disposal of reusable materials.
Innovation Solution
A reinforced two-way adjustable frame with four corner elements and side links connected via four-way junctions, allowing for telescopic adjustment to fit various dimensions, providing enhanced safety and sustainability by being reusable and adaptable for different applications such as temporary walls or fences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If adjustable frames are made from new construction materials for specific dimensions, then safety requirements are met, but resource waste increases and sustainability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame employs telescopic side links that can extend and retract to adjust the frame dimensions dynamically. This allows a single frame structure to adapt to multiple opening sizes, eliminating the need to manufacture different frames for different dimensions and reducing material waste from discarded frames.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is designed with universal adjustability to serve multiple functions: it can cover various sized openings, act as temporary walls, provide access control, and prevent fall accidents. The four-way junctions and telescopic connections enable the same frame structure to be deployed in diverse construction safety applications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If frames are made adjustable to fit various dimensions, then versatility and re-usability improve, but structural robustness and gap reduction become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into modular components: corner elements, side links, and four-way junctions. Each component is designed with standardized connection interfaces that maintain structural integrity while allowing dimensional adjustment. The segmentation enables the frame to achieve both versatility and strength through proper modular assembly.
3Reliability
If traditional safety equipment is scrapped after use, then safety function is fulfilled, but sustainability and resource efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is designed for recovery and reuse rather than disposal. After protecting a construction site opening, the frame can be disassembled, transported, and redeployed at another location. The durable materials and modular design facilitate repeated use cycles, transforming the equipment from single-use to multi-use, thereby improving sustainability while maintaining safety functionality.
Data Source
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Figure 4
Figure 5a~5b
AI summary
A reinforced two-way adjustable frame is disclosed. It has four corner elements, four or more side links and one or more four-way junctions. The frame has four sides which are each formed by two of the corner elements telescopically connected through one or more side links. Opposite sides of the frame are telescopically connected at the side links through one or more of the four-way junctions. A method of covering an opening using the frame is also disclosed, as well as a guard system of one or more of the frames.